Northern Wisconsin Discovery Tour
October 9 – 12, 2025
Join the Natural Resources Foundation and the North Lakeland Discovery Center on this 4-day adventure to explore hidden gems of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Enjoy hikes, paddles and pontoon rides to learn why the ecology, habitats and wildlife are so unique in this region. Our journey will reveal forests ablaze with yellow, orange and red fall colors and spectacular waterfalls cascading over ancient bedrock. Observe abundant wildlife, enjoy beautiful scenery, and hear about citizen science efforts underway to better understand the stunning Northwoods and its inhabitants.
This trip is in partnership with North Lakeland Discovery Center.
Interstate Falls by David Marvin
Trip highlights
- Manitowish Chain of Lakes Pontoon Ride. Search for waterfowl, beaver, and unusual aquatic plants on this leisurely boat ride. Hear about the history of gangsters in the Northwoods.
- Northwoods Wildlife Center Tour. Take a guided tour of the facility to learn how the center helps injured and orphaned animals through rescue, rehabilitation, education and research. Meet some of their ambassador animals.
- Explore local waterfalls. Travel along the southern Lake Superior shoreline with a local geologist. Observe incredible geologic features, rock formations, and ancient bedrock while visiting local waterfalls and stunning overlooks.
- Paddle the Manitowish River. Enjoy a quiet-water paddle in search of bald eagles, river otters, and other wildlife under a backdrop of spectacular fall color.
- Travel with a small group. The maximum number of travelers is 14. We think the small-group atmosphere allows you to get closer to your guide, each other, and, most importantly, nature.
Fall color by North Lakeland Discovery Center.
Activity Level 4: Moderate – Challenging
Most hikes will be 2-3 miles on flat, wide trails. For waterfall viewing, participants should be able to hike up to 5 miles and ascend or descend steep stairs and sloped trails. Physical activities typically last for 3 or more hours at a time.
Accommodations
Five bunk house style cabins that include bathrooms with showers. Housing will be shared by other members of your group. Nearby hotel lodging available at your own expense.
Kayakers by Licia Johnson.
Pricing
The base cost is $750 per person. The price includes bunkhouse accommodations, meals except Day 2 restaurant dinner, non-alcoholic beverages with meals, vehicle transportation, canoe rental, a full time guide and part of your trip cost goes to support the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin.
A deposit of $225 per person is required by participants to register and reserve a space on the program. Reservations made less than 30 days prior to departure require full payment.
Cancellation Policy
60 or more days before scheduled date of arrival: 50% of down payment is forfeited.
59-0 days before departure: 100% of down payment is forfeited.
Registration deadline is September 5, 2025
Bunkhouses by North Lakeland Discovery Center
Kim Kreitinger
Field Trip Coordinator
(608) 409-3110
Kim.Kreitinger@WisConservation.org
Kim Kreitinger (she/her) supports the Foundation's Field Trip program, plans our domestic and international travel, and helps connect members with the Foundation.
Banner photo courtesy of M. Crowley.